Learner pregnancy – perceptions on its prevalence and the Child Support Grant (CSG) being the possible cause in South African secondary schools

Abstract

Learner pregnancy has recently become a thorn in the flesh for most schools in South Africa, and documentary evidence shows that its prevalence is greater amongst Black public schools than White schools. Within its discourse, more often than not, the Child Support Grant (CSG) has featured prominently in the perceived increase in the pregnancy rate among learners. It is therefore essential for research to find an answer to the question: Are girl learners falling pregnant and having children in order to receive a CSG? A sample of 302 secondary school principals and 225 Grade 12 learners was used in this study. The study found that peer pressure, poverty and substance abuse are perceived as the primary causes of learner pregnancy. The study also reveals that the majority of school principals (62%) bemoan a lack of support and cooperation from both authorities and parents in dealing with this challenge. The majority of Grade 12 learners (92%) identified, among others, a lack of family support/love, substance abuse and promiscuity as the three key issues that require urgent attention. It is clear from the findings of this study that learner pregnancy is not linked to the CSG.